Each year the IACP and Motorola Solutions recognize state troopers and provincial police who have demonstrated bravery, courage, leadership, and professionalism. At the annual Division Midyear meeting, the IACP and Motorola Solutions honor four regional finalists and announce the IACP/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year. 

Motorola Solutions is proud to partner with the International Association of Chiefs of Police to honor the selfless work being done in police agencies every day around the world. Men and women in state and provincial police agencies know the situations they face can change in an instant, yet they continue to put their lives on the line to help keep their communities safe. Motorola Solutions humbly recognizes the brave efforts of our four finalists and the sacrifices made by all law enforcement.

On February 4, 2023, Trooper Turner responded to the Interstate 75 and Overpass Road area in Pasco County, Florida, regarding an active pursuit of burglary suspects driving a stolen Ford F-250. During the pursuit, one of the suspects discharged a firearm at passing motorists, including a fully loaded fuel tanker, placing not only responding troopers in harm’s way but also innocent motorists. Trooper Turner engaged in the pursuit after locating the suspects traveling south. As the suspects exited the interstate, Trooper Turner successfully initiated the Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT), rendering the suspect’s vehicle inoperative. Both suspects exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Trooper Turner fearlessly gave chase to one of the suspects into a heavily wooded area, knowing he had previously discharged a firearm. As Trooper Turner attempted to apprehend the suspect, he displayed a firearm and shot Trooper Turner, striking him in the abdomen.

Trooper Turner returned fire, neutralizing the deadly threat. Trooper Turner retreated from the wooded area where responding troopers rendered aid to his gunshot wound, and he was transported via air ambulance to a trauma center for life-threatening injuries. Trooper Turner returned to full duty in June 2023, displaying the highest level of dedication to the citizens and visitors of Florida. Trooper Turner exhibited bravery, gallantry, and courage by engaging in a dangerous pursuit of armed felons, ultimately resulting in deadly gunfire.

The IACP/Motorola Solutions 2023 Trooper of the Year finalists were Trooper Andrew Tuttle, Oregon State Police; Trooper Michelle Archer, Vermont State Police; Provincial Constable Marc Lauzon, Ontario Provincial Police; and Trooper Steven Turner, Florida Highway Patrol. Their stories can be found on the IACP website.